ICELAND
REYKJAVÍK
Reykjavík is Iceland’s capital and largest city. Travelers flock to experience the colorful city’s natural beauty and charming attractions. You will find no shortage of unique sights, cuisine, experiences and museums to explore during your stay.
Perfect Harmony: Harpa concert hall PHOTO: © SEAN PAVONE | DREAMSTIME.COM
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Keflavík International Airport, the largest in Iceland, serves as the hub for international travel and the home of Icelandair, the country’s flag carrier. Reykjavík lies about 30 miles from the airport; rent a car or book a Flybus airport transfer into the city. Reykjavík’s Strætó bus system provides convenient travel within the city or to neighboring towns. The Reykjavík City Card offers 24-, 48- and 72-hour unlimited travel options with discounts at local restaurants and attractions. The city is walkable if you prefer to skip renting a car or taking public transportation.
LODGING
101 Hotel, Reykjavik The sleek, modern property is located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. Explore the property’s art gallery, unwind in the spa and indulge in a meal at the bar and lounge. Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, tel 354 580 0101 101hotel.is Alda Hotel Reykjavik Providing a quiet respite within walking distance of city center, this boutique lifestyle hotel offers dining at Brass Kitchen & Bar, a fitness center, indoor dry sauna and outdoor hot tub. Laugavegur 66-68, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, tel 354 553 9366 icelandairhotels.com
DINING
Dill Restaurant Specializing in new Nordic cuisine, Dill was the first restaurant in Iceland to receive a Michelin star, in 2017. The restaurant serves a tasting menu with optional wine pairings. Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, tel 354 552 1522 dillrestaurant.is Fiskmarkaðurinn (The Fishmarket) The inventive seafood restaurant delights diners with unique preparations of fish with both Icelandic and Asian influences. Opt for the tasting menu or order à la carte. Aðalstræti 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, tel 354 578 8877 fiskmarkadurinn.is
Hótel Borg by Keahotels Reykjavík’s first luxury hotel boasts 99 guestrooms and suites designed in Art Deco style. Guests can take advantage of the gym, spa and award-winning restaurant.
Tapas barinn For an Icelandic take on Spanish tapas, dine at Tapas barinn. Expect creative spins on local dishes. Order a variety of small plates or one of the several tasting menu options.
Pósthússtræti 11, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, tel 354 551 1440 keahotels.is
Vesturgötu 3b, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, tel 354 551 2344 tapas.is
52
globaltravelerusa.com GLOBAL CITY GUIDEBOOK 2021
ATTRACTIONS
Laugardalslaug Pool Iceland boasts geothermal spas and pools throughout the country, but Laugardalslaug makes a great option without having to leave Reykjavík. Located at the recreation center with a garden, zoo, spa, gym and skating rink, the pool is the largest in the city and ideal for a family outing. Sundlaugavegur, 104 Reykjavík, Iceland tel 354 411 5100 visitorsguide.is/laugardalslaug-pool National Museum of Iceland Iceland’s national museum holds more than 2,000 artifacts detailing the country’s history, dating back to Viking settlements. Open daily, the museum offers guided and self-guided tours. Suðurgata 41, 102 Reykjavík, Iceland tel 354 530 2200 thjodminjasafn.is Walking Tour The best way to explore Reykjavík is by foot. The city features numerous architectural and sculptural gems: Harpa concert hall, Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Sun Voyager sculpture. In Laugavegur, a popular shopping street, visitors find small boutiques, charming cafés and street art.
